Learning theory

• Assumptions:

  learn through observation ans imitation of others

  Learning can occur directly but indirectly
• Vicarious reinforcement:

  for indriect learning it occur the individual has to observe the behaviour.

  They will only imitate it if the behaviour was seen to be rewarded than punished (vicarious reinforcement)
• Role of medicational processes:

  focuses on how cognitive processes are involved in learning

  • Mental factors intervene in the learning process to determine whether a new response is acquired.

  1. Attention - to what extent did the behaviour catch the individual atttntion
  2. Retention- how well do they remember it
  3. Motor reproduction- ability to imitate the behaviour
  4. Motivation- if it was punished or rewarded
• Identification:

  People (especially children) are more likely to imitate those they identify with (role model).

  The imitation that takes place is called modelling.

  An individual is more likely to be role models with someone they share similar characteristics.

  As well they do not need to present in their environment
• Bandura's research

  Condition 1

  1961, recored the behaviour of young children who watched an adult behave aggressively towards a BOBO doll.

  The adult hit the doll with a hammer and shouted abuse at it.

  When these children were later observed playing with toys, including the BOBO doll, they behaved much more aggressively towards the toys and the BOBO doll than those who had observed a non-aggressive adult.
• Bandura's research

  CONDITION 2

  Bandura and Walters 1963 showed videos to children where an adult is acting aggressively towards the BOBO doll.

  Group 1 children: saw man being praised for the aggressive behaviour. ie: 'well done'

  Group 2 children: saw man being punished by being told off

  Group 3( control): saw no consequence for their aggression

  When children were given their own BOBO dolls group 1 showed most aggression followed by group 3 then group 2